Pandemic-related mortgage bailouts are ending, and foreclosures are now rising. Foreclosure stats jumped 32% in the third quarter of this year from the second quarter and were 67% higher than the third quarter of 2020. With foreclosures flooding the market, it’s “standing room only” at real estate auction sales these days. Those properties are selling…
Preparing to apply for a home loan involves several steps to ensure you present a strong application, get the best interest rates, and improve your chances of approval. Here’s a guide to help you get ready: 1. Check and Improve Your Credit Score Obtain Your Credit Report: Get a free copy of your credit report…
Protecting a vacant home is crucial to prevent vandalism, break-ins, and potential damage from maintenance issues. Here are some effective strategies: 1. Secure the Property Locks and Reinforcements: Ensure all doors and windows have high-quality locks. Consider installing deadbolts and reinforcing sliding doors with rods or tracks. Alarm System: Install a security alarm system with…
Choosing the right neighborhood is a crucial part of finding the ideal home. To determine if a neighborhood is right for you, consider the following factors that align with your lifestyle, preferences, and needs: 1. Safety Research Crime Statistics: Check online resources or local police department websites for crime rates. Tools like NeighborhoodScout or SpotCrime…
Final walkthroughs are not the same as home inspections – this is not the time for negotiations with the seller to do repairs or add contingencies. The purpose of a final walkthrough is to make sure the property you are purchasing is in the condition in which you agreed to buy it. It is a…
Buying a home is one of the largest investments most people will make in their lifetime. After all the excitement of finding the perfect place, negotiating the price, and closing the deal, protecting that investment becomes a top priority. That’s where homeowners insurance comes into play. While it may seem like an additional cost, homeowners…
Finally ready to make the transition into home ownership? Great! During this exciting time you may be turning to friends and family for insight into the process. However, there seems to be a circulation of misinformation, so we’re here to clear up a few myths. 1. THE FIRST STEP IS SEARCHING FOR A HOME You…
Newlyweds are saying “I do” to each other, and they equate to over half of first-time home buyers that are also saying “I do” to their dream homes. It makes sense! When you put two hearts together, the time comes to find a home to nourish that love. A home that brings two of your…
When it comes to selling your home, first impressions are everything. Home staging—preparing and styling your home to appeal to potential buyers—has become a key strategy in the real estate world. If you’re on the fence about whether or not to stage your home before putting it on the market, here are several compelling reasons…
Buying a home is an exciting milestone, but it can also be overwhelming—especially when it comes to figuring out your budget. Knowing how much you can afford ensures that you make a smart financial decision, one that aligns with your long-term goals. If you’re ready to begin your homebuying journey but aren’t sure how to…